Maria A. Collins, 91, of Milford, passed away on June 4, 2025

Maria A. Collins, 91, of Milford, beloved wife of the late Robert Collins, passed away on June 4, 2025. Born on July 18, 1933 in Hartford, CT, she was the daughter of the late Dominic and Myrtle Martocci.

Maria’s life was defined by the many roles she embraced and her deep connections to both family and community. Immensely sociable and well-liked, she was given numerous nicknames over the years by those who shared in her passions and pursuits. Growing up in Woodmont, she was simply known by her family as “Sister.” As the sibling of Patty, Dominic, and Michael, Maria treasured her childhood memories—especially her father’s unique pets and her mother’s nurturing presence. She had a special bond with her baby brother Michael, and over the years their connection only deepened. At Milford High School, her good looks and spunky personality earned her the nickname “Chickie.” It was then she met her future husband, Robert, affectionately known as “Jukie,” who was serving in the Navy. Together, Chickie and Jukie built a forever home in Woodmont, and then Chickie lovingly became known as “Mom” to Pat, Kathy, and Debbie. They grew up heeding her sage advice, such as "Don't drink the punch" and "Watch out for characters."

Maria’s professional life was rooted in service. She worked as a librarian and administrative assistant at Yale University, where she played a key role as a founding member of the Local 34 Union. Her dedication to community shone through in her active involvement with the Woodmont Company 5 Auxiliary and Post 196. Her passion for literacy led her to volunteer with Literacy Volunteers of Milford, where she left a lasting impact on the many people who proudly called her their teacher. In retirement, Maria embraced new adventures, traveling extensively to China, Australia, and New Zealand with her devoted husband. She found joy and companionship as a cherished member of the Red Hatters, where her exuberance and sense of humor stood out brightly.

In the fullness of time, Maria’s final and most treasured nicknames—“Nena” and “GG”—reflected the deep love and importance of her roles as grandmother and great-grandmother. She embodied everything those roles could mean: a well of wisdom, a source of laughter and play, and a cupboard full of Devil Dogs. Known for her generosity, creativity, and thoughtful gift-giving, Maria’s spirit was defined by love, humor, and an unwavering commitment to her family and friends.

Maria is survived by her children, Patrick Collins and his wife Sharon Collins, Kathleen Stanley, and Deborah Collins and her husband Christopher Healy; her grandchildren, Kari Collins, Rebecca Flynn and her husband Conor Flynn, Robert Stanley and his wife Heather Stanley, Emily Lee and her husband Brenden Lee, and Ian Heyse and his wife Annick McIntosh, and her great grandchildren: Ellie, Sadie, Mackenzie, Josie, Jack, Graham, and Raven; cherished brother, Michael Martocci and his wife Maureen (Mo) Martocci as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. Along with her husband, Robert, she is predeceased by her siblings, Dominic Martocci Jr. and Patricia Armentino.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, June 20, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford. The interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Literacy Volunteers of Southern Connecticut, 16 Dixon Street, Milford CT.

To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com